Controversial Qatari Gift: U.S. Air Force Begins Conversion of Donated Boeing 747-8 into Presidential Aircraft

American media outlets reported that work has officially commenced on modifying the Qatari-donated aircraft to meet the requirements for presidential travel.

According to Rokna, the U.S. Air Force confirmed that the conversion of the Boeing 747-8 into the new Air Force One has started, though it refrained from providing further details. In a statement, the Air Force said: “In accordance with instructions from the Department of Defense, the Air Force is conducting modifications to the Boeing 747 for executive airlift support.” It added that, “Details of this contract remain classified.”

Earlier this year, former U.S. President Donald Trump accepted the VIP-configured Boeing 747-8 as a gift from the Qatari government. Before the aircraft is eventually transferred to Trump’s presidential library, it is set to undergo modifications and be handed over to the U.S. Air Force. Pentagon officials stated that specifics regarding the modification program—including costs, contracts, and timelines—will not be disclosed due to confidentiality.

The secrecy surrounding this agreement is unusual, as the broader program to replace the existing VC-25A Air Force One fleet with VC-25B aircraft is not classified.

CNN also reported that, according to sources, the conversion process will involve installing critical security and communications equipment to adapt the jet for presidential use. Despite Qatar’s status as a close ally of Washington, U.S. counterintelligence and security agencies overseeing the program are expected to completely dismantle the aircraft before reassembling it with the necessary systems.

Acceptance of the Qatari gift, however, has sparked criticism from both Republicans and Democrats, who voiced concerns over potential espionage and security risks. Republican Senator Ted Cruz warned that the matter could create significant challenges related to surveillance and counterintelligence.